Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR28

Introduced
1/27/25  
Refer
1/27/25  

Caption

A Resolution designating March 26, 2025, as "Bangladesh Day" in Pennsylvania.

Summary

House Resolution 28 designates March 26, 2025, as "Bangladesh Day" in Pennsylvania. The resolution recounts the history of Bangladesh’s independence movement, including the partition of British India, the separation of East and West Pakistan, the 1971 liberation struggle, and the declaration of independence by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 26, 1971. It also notes the humanitarian toll of the Bangladesh Liberation War and the symbolism of Bangladesh’s national flag. The resolution further recognizes the presence of a Bangladeshi community in Pennsylvania, specifically citing the Bangladesh Association of Pennsylvania in Lansdale and its role as a nonprofit cultural organization promoting Bangladeshi social and cultural activities and cooperation with other ethnic communities. The measure is ceremonial and commemorative in nature; it does not create a new regulatory program or alter substantive rights, but instead formally acknowledges Bangladeshi heritage and contributions in the Commonwealth.

Impact

HR 28 has no direct effect on Pennsylvania statutes, regulations, taxes, or agency authority. Its legal impact is limited to the official designation of March 26, 2025, as "Bangladesh Day" and the expression of legislative recognition for Bangladeshi Pennsylvanians. The resolution may be used for commemorative, educational, and community-recognition purposes, but it does not impose obligations on state or local governments or private parties.

Sentiment

The available voting history suggests broad support for the resolution. It was adopted in the House State Government Committee by a 19-7 vote and later passed the House floor by a wide 192-11 margin. The bill text itself is celebratory and affirming, emphasizing historical remembrance, cultural recognition, and the contributions of Bangladeshi Pennsylvanians, which aligns with the generally favorable vote outcomes.

Contention

The main point of contention appears to be whether the House should adopt a commemorative resolution of this kind, rather than any dispute over the history or the Bangladeshi community itself. The committee vote of 19-7 indicates some members were not supportive, likely reflecting broader concerns some legislators may have about floor time, the use of official designations, or the appropriateness of state recognition resolutions. However, the final floor vote shows that opposition was limited and the measure ultimately received strong bipartisan or cross-party support.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HR454

Designating March 26, 2026, as "Bangladesh Day" in Pennsylvania.

PA HR1130

Recognizing the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971 and protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

PA J01706

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 26, 2026, as Bangladesh Independence Day in the State of New York

PA J00812

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 26, 2025, as Bangladesh Independence Day in the State of New York

PA K01082

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 26, 2026, as Bangladesh Independence Day in the State of New York

PA J01806

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 25, 2026, as Bangladeshi Immigrant Day in the State of New York

PA HR408

Recognizing April 10, 2025, as Bangladeshi Day at the State Capitol.

PA HR86

Designating March 17, 2025, as "Bayard Rustin Day" in Pennsylvania.

PA HR394

Designating March 17, 2026, as "Bayard Rustin Day" in Pennsylvania.

PA SR1096

Bangladeshi Americans in Georgia; recognize and commend

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Designating March 26, 2026, as "Bangladesh Day" in Pennsylvania.

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